Every human, animal, and plant is connected to the environment in some way. Massive or minuscule, every activity engages, influences, and changes the environment. The world needs people who understand nature and can help improve the environment, which is why it’s important to pursue one of these cheapest online environmental science master’s degrees.
Environmental science explores how we can help the environment and reduce our negative impact on nature. It takes into account aspects including agriculture, water usage, natural resources, climate change, recreational activities, wildlife, and more.
With these degrees, graduates can move into a variety of careers, including:
- Environmental scientist
- Conservation scientist
- Forester
- Wildlife biologist
- Zoologist
- Geoscientist
- Hydrologist
If you think a career in environmental science is right for you, this degree ranking will provide numerous options. We have identified 81 online programs from 56 accredited institutions. These degrees come with a range of concentrations, and many offer an affordable price.
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost (In-state): ~$22,800
Least Expensive In-state: Montana State University ~$9,623
Least Expensive Out-of-state: Montana State University ~$12,882
Are you ready to understand and improve the environment? Are you ready to do your part for a better, healthier planet? Then keep reading to learn about the best environmental science master’s online programs and the top careers in this field.
41 Cheapest Online Environmental Science Master’s Programs
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Montana State University | (MT) | $9,623.00 $12,882.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
2 | East Carolina University | (NC) | $10,134.00 $35,702.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
3 | Sul Ross State University | (TX) | $10,309.00 $22,549.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
4 | University of West Florida | (FL) | $11,538.00 $31,327.00 $11,538.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
5 |  East Central University | (OK) | $11,690.00 $21,770.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
6 | Tarleton State University | (TX) | $12,142.00 $25,582.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
7 |  University of West Alabama | (AL) | $13,185.00 | All Students |
8 | Utah State University | (UT) | $13,497.00 $16,269.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
9 | Troy University | (AL) | $14,250.00 | All Students |
10 | Stephen F. Austin State University | (TX) | $14,270.00 $26,870.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
11 | North Dakota State University | (ND) | $14,577.00 | All Students |
12 | Virginia Wesleyan University | (VA) | $14,970.00 | All Students |
13 | University of Missouri-Columbia | (MO) | $15,000.00 | All Students |
14 | Black Hills State University | (SD) | $15,525.00 | All Students |
15 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | (NC) | $16,039.00 $26,788.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
16 | Auburn University | (AL) | $16,380.00 | All Students |
17 | California State University-Fresno | (CA) | $16,530.00 | All Students |
18 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | (NC) | $16,599.00 $49,889.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
19 | University of South Florida | (FL) | $16,625.00 $32,672.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
20 | Mississippi State University | (MS) | $16,860.00 | All Students |
21 | University of Florida | (FL) | $16,950.00 | All Students |
21 | University of Florida | (FL) | $16,950.00 $18,600.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
23 | University of Florida | (FL) | $16,982.00 $40,173.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
24 | University of Illinois at Springfield | (IL) | $17,305.00 | All Students |
25 | Wilmington University | (DE) | $17,512.00 $10,120.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
26 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | (WI) | $17,515.00 | All Students |
27 | Texas A & M University | (TX) | $17,568.00 $37,062.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
28 | University of Kansas | (KS) | $17,655.00 | All Students |
29 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | (WI) | $17,700.00 | All Students |
30 | Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania | (PA) | $18,630.00 $20,790.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
30 | University of Idaho | (ID) | $18,630.00 | All Students |
32 | University of Maryland Global Campus | (MD) | $19,404.00 $24,264.00 $17,820.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
33 | Unity Environmental University | (ME) | $19,600.00 $17,650.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
34 | University of Houston - Clear Lake | (TX) | $19,644.00 $38,868.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
35 | Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | (LA) | $19,656.00 | All Students |
36 | Capitol Technology University | (MD) | $20,220.00 $11,820.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
37 | Ohio University | (OH) | $20,280.00 $20,850.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
38 | Clemson University | (SC) | $20,692.00 | All Students |
39 | Colorado State University | (CO) | $21,278.00 | All Students |
40 | University of Kentucky | (KY) | $22,455.00 | All Students |
41 | Tuskegee University | (AL) | $22,700.00 | All Students |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The University of Tennessee - Martin | (TN) | $23,184.00 $25,272.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | (IL) | $23,680.00 | All Students | |
Oregon State University | (OR) | $25,200.00 | All Students | |
University of Wisconsin-Parkside | (WI) | $25,500.00 | All Students | |
University of Arizona | (AZ) | $25,500.00 | All Students | |
Webster University | (MO) | $26,280.00 $14,040.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Michigan State University | (MI) | $26,520.00 | All Students | |
University of Connecticut | (CT) | $27,750.00 | All Students | |
Auburn University | (AL) | $27,900.00 | All Students | |
University of North Dakota | (ND) | $28,206.00 | All Students | |
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | (VA) | $28,268.00 | All Students | |
Prescott College | (AZ) | $28,479.00 | All Students | |
University of Oklahoma | (OK) | $29,550.00 | All Students | |
Pennsylvania State University | (PA) | $30,510.00 | All Students | |
Pennsylvania State University | (PA) | $33,561.00 | All Students | |
Samford University | (AL) | $34,968.00 | All Students | |
Everglades University | (FL) | $36,645.00 | All Students | |
University of Denver | (CO) | $38,880.00 | All Students | |
Antioch University Online | (OH) | $42,292.00 | All Students | |
 Johns Hopkins University | (MD) | $47,900.00 | All Students | |
Thomas Jefferson University | (PA) | $48,675.00 | All Students | |
Johns Hopkins University | (MD) | $62,372.00 | All Students |
Methodology
These rankings of online environmental master’s programs are based on our fall 2023 review of degrees. To calculate the total cost, we use a variety of factors including minimum required credit hours, tuition rates, and general fees. At the time of collection, the information was valid and specific to the individual program. Profiles for the same degrees found in the directory on our site may, on occasion, reflect a different cost based on editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated total price for the entire degree, but actual costs will vary by student. For example, if you have transfer credits, your cost may be lower. Prerequisite courses, textbook fees, licensing requirements, financial aid, and numerous other factors can impact the price of an affordable online environmental science degree.
We strive to create the most honest, accurate ranking system possible. Therefore, we do not accept payments from schools to be included or removed from our rankings. The rankings are open to any regionally-accredited public or nonprofit college or university that offers an online environmental science degree. We do not include degrees from non-accredited, nationally-accredited, or for-profit schools in our rankings. We also exclude from our rankings degrees that are available less than 80% online and those that are only available to students in five states or fewer.
Program Note: To qualify for a ranking, the online master’s in environmental science must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table. Degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
EHAC National Environmental Health, Science and Protection Accreditation Council
Why Consider One of the Cheapest Online Environmental Science Master’s?
Thinking about an online master’s environmental science degree? Here are some of the top reasons that people enroll in these programs:
- Deal with vital issues: Climate change, deforestation, resource management; all of these important issues are tackled by people educated in environmental science.
- Strong salaries: Environmental scientists have a median salary of $76,480 (May 2022), which is roughly $46,000 more than the median for all occupations.
- High demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that careers in the life sciences will see faster growth than the overall job market. With a degree in environmental science, you should have no problem finding job openings.
Environmental Master’s Degrees: Program Cost
A master’s in environmental science online can be extremely expensive. But it can also be surprisingly affordable. The average cost for these programs is about $22,800. Assuming you complete a two-year track, this means the annual cost is about $11,400.
There are plenty of options below the average cost. This database includes:
- 52 programs less than the average of $22,800
- 45 programs less than $20,000
- 12 programs less than $15,000
- 6 programs less than $12,000
With so many affordable online environmental science master’s programs, you should be able to find a degree that suits your needs, goals, and budget.
The lowest-priced degree costs less than $10,000. The Master of Science in Land Resources & Environmental Sciences from Montana State University has a total price of $9,623 for in-state students. Meanwhile, out-of-state students only pay $12,882, which is also the lowest out-of-state pricing on our list.
The most expensive comes from Johns Hopkins University, a private institution in Maryland. This program costs $62,372 for all students regardless of residency.
To keep costs low, look at public institutions within your state. These schools generally provide the most affordable rates for all degrees, including online master’s environmental science programs.
Who Offers the Most Affordable Environmental Science Degrees?
With over 80 different programs in this database, you’ll find a variety of affordable master of environmental science online programs. Here are the three schools that offer the lowest price for these degrees:
#1. Montana State University – Master of Science in Land Resources & Environmental Sciences
Cost: $9,623 (In-state, Montana)
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Available fully online, this MS degree focuses on land resources and ecology, a branch of biology that studies how organisms relate to each other and their physical surroundings. The program combines integrated, multi-disciplinary coursework with independent study. During the program, students gain an in-depth knowledge of landscapes and how to manage resources.
The program allows students to study a variety of subjects that include hydrology, crop diversification, and environmental restoration, as well as other topics.
Montana State is one of the best-regarded institutions for online learning. A major research university, MSU has also created a useful online platform for students. It provides resources such as academic advising and library services, helping online students enjoy one of the most comprehensive online educations available.
#2. East Carolina University – Master of Science in Environmental Health
Cost: $10,134 (In-state, North Carolina)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
With a total price just over $10,000 for in-state students, it’s the second most affordable option on our list. However, it also has one of the largest differences between in-state and out-of-state tuition. Out-of-state residents pay an estimated price of $35,702, a difference of over $25,000.
The Master of Science in Environmental Health from East Carolina University (ECU) provides one of the most unique educations in this field. Housed in the university’s College of Health and Human Performance, it includes studies in air pollution, food safety, toxicology, and other subjects that connect environmental science and human health.
ECU has created an innovative online school designed for traditional and non-traditional students. It welcomes students seeking to start a new bachelor’s degree and those who want to finish a previously started degree. It provides a supportive online learning platform with a range of graduate and undergrad programs.
#3. Sul Ross State University – Master of Agriculture in Natural Resource Conservation
Cost: $10,309 (In-state, Texas)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The Master of Agriculture in Natural Resource Conservation from Sul Ross University is the third cheapest online master’s degree environmental science in this database. The degree encompasses 30 credit hours delivered online. In addition to online coursework, the school strongly suggests an internship since hands-on experience is crucial to a career in natural resources.
While the degree can be spread over multiple years, the university offers a 12-month plan for completion. This allows for quick graduation, making it a great option for those who want to rapidly advance their skills.
Known as “the frontier university of Texas,” Sul Ross provides a variety of degrees delivered completely online. It offers 24/7 support and helps students develop a program that fits each person’s schedule.
Online Environmental Science: Master Degree Program Types
This is one of the most diverse rankings on our website. As a result, with over 80 options, aspiring environmental scientists and conservationists can find a degree that fits their background, skills, and interests.
While the specific concentration or specialization is typically most important for your career, you should understand the differences between various types of master’s degrees. The most common type in this database is a master of science, which focuses on scientific and technical aspects. Another type, although less common in this field, is a master of arts, which deals with theory and often takes a broader approach.
You will also find master of professional studies degrees, which are highly focused on a specific career. Other options include a master of environmental science, master of energy and environmental management, and master of wildlife and fisheries resources.
The concentration is extremely important to this career. While these degrees all orbit around environmental science, the concentration will determine whether you become a conservationist, microbiologist, forester, wildlife biologist, hydrologist, or geologist.
Some concentrations in this database include:
- Land resources
- Water resources
- Resource communications
- Environmental studies
- Sustainability
- Forestry
- Forestry business
- Biomaterials
- Geology
- Hydrology
- Aquatic sciences
- Wildlife sciences
- Energy policy
Think about your interests and career goals. This can certainly help you sort through the maze of choices and guide you to the best online master’s environmental science for your future.
Accreditation for Master’s Programs in Environmental Science
Accreditation acts as a form of quality control for academia. Accrediting bodies review a college or university for education format, faculty, graduate success, and other factors. If the school meets the guidelines, then the accrediting body grants accreditation to the institution.
The most important form of accreditation is institutional. This type, which covers the entire school, is granted by regional groups that cover large portions of the United States. For example, the Higher Learning Commission covers much of the Midwest and many of the Rocky Mountain states, while the Middle States Commission on Higher Education covers colleges and universities in the Mid-Atlantic region.
There is also a form of accreditation known as programmatic. This type covers a specific academic subject, such as accounting, nursing, or journalism. For example, counseling degrees can get accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
Not all degrees hold programmatic accreditation, though. In fact, there is no accrediting group that is specific to environmental science. As long as the degree comes from an accredited institution, it will deliver a high-quality education.
Accreditation is important for the quality of education and the respectability of your degree. Employers and industry experts know that your education met a high level if it comes from an accredited institution.
Typical Admission Requirements for a Master’s in Enviro Science
A master’s degree is one of the highest levels of academic achievement, second only to a doctorate. To gain acceptance to a master’s program is a major achievement indeed.
Environmental science master’s online programs have high standards for their incoming students. The most basic requirement is a bachelor’s degree in a related field. A bachelor’s in environmental science, biology, physics, chemistry, or a related life science together with additional requirements will qualify most students for a master’s in environmental science online.
Each program is different, but typical master’s requirements include:
- Letters of recommendation
- A statement of purpose
- Minimum GPA (2.5 – 3.0 is common)
- Transcripts from previous colleges
- Professional resume
With a strong academic background, students will certainly find a master’s program that accepts their application.
Licensing, Training, or Experience Requirements
Some educations lead specifically to licensing. For example, if you complete law school, you may take the bar exam to become a licensed attorney. If you complete an accounting degree, then you can test to become a Certified Public Accountant. For these careers, there is a direct path from education to licensing.
With environmental science, however, the licensing is less direct. There is an assortment of potential licenses and certifications, largely depending on your specific education and subsequent career.
Here are two examples:
Foresters and Conservation Scientists
If you work as a conservation scientist, you may need licensing through the state. Even if you do not need licensing, volunteer certification through the Society of American Foresters can boost your knowledge and career.
Certified Hazardous Materials Managers
While voluntary, environmental scientists can work with the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management to become Certified Hazardous Materials Managers. This is a five-year certification that shows knowledge of current environmental and hazardous-material issues.
Salary and Career Information for Environmental Experts
Your skills, work ethic, experience, and location will impact your earnings and career stability. But overall, the life sciences, including environmental science and conservation, is a field that brings strong pay and steady employment.
The BLS says that “employment in life, physical, and social science occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032.” Each occupation will see a different growth rate, but across the category there will be roughly 137,000 openings each year. Environmental scientists, for example, will see a 6% growth, while overall job growth will be 3%.
The highest concentration of environmental scientists is in the District of Columbia, where there are 2.38 environmental scientists for every 1,000 jobs. Second place goes to Alaska, where there are 2.15 environmental scientists per 1,000 workers. The best-paid environmental experts are also in the District of Columbia. In fact, in the nation’s capital, environmental scientists have a median pay of $118,430.
Pay in these careers will be strong as well. Here are a few of the top careers and their median incomes:
- Conservation scientist: $64,460
- Wildlife biologist: $67,430
- Environmental scientist: $76,480
- Hydrologist: $85,990
- Geoscientist: $87,480
- All life sciences: $83,060
How Do I Choose a Good Online Environmental Science Master’s Program?
Whether you have a large budget or need the cheapest online environmental science master’s degree, take your time, research the programs, and find the right degree for your goals.
Start by understanding the coursework and concentrations for a degree, and look for institutional accreditation. Once you have found a few programs, research the cost and delivery structure to make sure the program fits your budget and schedule.
If you need more information on affordable online environmental science master’s programs, then take advantage of the rankings and other data on GetEducated.com. We have the resources you need to make the best choice for your online education.